Why Modern Learning Needs to Change (or Sink)

Traditional workplace training can feel like trying to drink from a firehose too much information, too quickly, and not enough time to absorb it. That might explain why so many employees walk out of full day courses remembering little more than what was served for lunch.

According to the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve, people forget up to 70% of new information within 24 hours without reinforcement. No wonder training retention rates are so low.

Enter the microlearning revolution: short, sharp, and focused training designed for how people actually learn in 2025. F.A.S.T. Training Australia, winner of Best Business Support Services at the 2025 Ipswich Chamber of Commerce Awards, leads this shift with practical, time smart CPR, first aid, and mental health training built for today’s teams.

We’ve helped over 40,000 students across 480+ Brisbane and South East Queensland organisations master life saving skills without the time waste.

What Is Microlearning? (And Why Your Team Will Actually Remember It)

Think of microlearning as the focused alternative to marathon training sessions. Instead of dragging your team through a three hour presentation, microlearning breaks content into digestible chunks each one focused on a single outcome or skill.

For example:

45 minute practical CPR training for staff that achieves 95% competency rates compared to 70% in traditional half day courses.

60 minute mental health training for employees sessions that address real workplace stressors with evidence based strategies.

90 minute psychological safety modules delivered in formats that fit your team’s schedule.

These formats aren’t just convenient, they’re proven. The Journal of Applied Psychology reports that short bursts of learning can improve retention by up to 20%. Even big names like Google and IBM are using this strategy to drive engagement and performance.

Attention Fatigue Is Real (But Beatable)

Between Slack pings, emails, and back to back meetings, your team is running on cognitive fumes. Attention fatigue is the natural result and it’s the biggest reason traditional training falls flat.

That’s why F.A.S.T. Training Australia offers solutions designed to cut through the noise. Whether it’s bite sized mental health training for employees or quick, impactful safety refreshers, our microlearning approach makes learning stick without disrupting your operations.

We also help businesses meet their obligations with workplace safety and compliance training delivered in a way that’s clear, relevant, and actually remembered.

Focus on One Goal at a Time

You wouldn’t try to teach ten different skills in one overwhelming session. So why do we overload staff with bloated training days covering unrelated topics?

Our sessions focus on one goal at a time. That might be:

• Life saving skills in a fast paced workplace safety and compliance training course
• Morale boosting wellbeing sessions that address specific team challenges
• Micro modules tailored to real world risks in your industry

This single focus method helps teams retain what matters most and apply it confidently when it counts.

Award Winning Training Built for Brisbane Teams

F.A.S.T. Training Australia isn’t just another training provider. We’re a locally owned, nationally recognised RTO that’s trained over 40,000 students across 480+ Brisbane and South East Queensland organisations. Our recent recognition as Best Business Support Services at the 2025 Ipswich Chamber of Commerce Awards reflects our commitment to practical, efficient training that respects your time and budget.

Our trainers bring real world experience, our content is evidence based, and our delivery formats are designed for how busy teams actually operate. Whether you’re a school managing staff compliance, a corporate team juggling deadlines, or an organisation building a safety culture, we understand your challenges because we’re local.

Real Results: Training That Saves Time and Improves Outcomes

One Brisbane based school needed compliant first aid training for 45 staff without losing valuable teaching days. Our microlearning approach delivered:

✓ 45 min practical CPR class and 90 min full First Aid class instead of full day training
✓ 100% compliance achieved with minimal disruption
✓ Zero impact on student services
✓ Significant cost savings in relief staff expenses

When training is built for how your people actually learn, you get real results:

• Fewer incidents thanks to clear, memorable emergency response training
• Happier teams through practical mental health training for employees that addresses real workplace stressors
• Greater staff retention as people feel seen, safe, and supported
• Compliance without the headache using streamlined, efficient delivery

If your team has ever left a course unsure of what they just learned, it’s time to rethink your approach.

Learning on Their Terms: Flexibility Is Key

With hybrid work now the norm, flexible training isn’t just convenient it’s essential for keeping teams engaged, accountable, and consistently upskilled.

Our training comes in formats to suit every team:

• Onsite sessions delivered at your workplace for hands on, face to face learning
• Online modules for remote learners or geographically dispersed teams
• Blended options combining online theory with practical onsite assessment

Whether you’re booking a safety refresher or building a comprehensive wellbeing program, we make it seamless to roll out.

The post Workplace Training Brisbane Teams Actually Remember appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

When we think of workplace productivity, most of us picture targets, time trackers, and task lists. But there’s another driver that doesn’t show up in most dashboards and it’s more powerful than you might think.

…Empathy

Not as a feel good side note, but as a strategic tool. One that influences how your people feel, function, and perform every single day.

In a workplace trained to understand mental health, communicate clearly, and handle conflict with care, teams don’t just survive they thrive.

We have all experienced those feel good tingles when someone says “thank you, I appreciate your effort today”  doesn’t take much, a simple statement of thanks goes a long way.  It’s not hard, so why don’t we do it more often?

Emotional ROI: What Happens When People Feel Safe

Every workplace interaction carries weight. Some energise your team, while others drain them. That invisible return on relationships and conversations? That’s what we call Emotional ROI.

It’s more than a concept it’s a measurable impact. When leaders and staff are trained to prioritise psychological safety, connected communication, and self-awareness, the returns show up in lower turnover, faster collaboration, and less downtime.  If someone shows appreciation in your work or even your effort does that not put more of a spring in your step?  Are you more likely to go the extra mile on a task because you know your efforts are appreciated?  of course you are!  Are you going to enjoy your work day, complain less and be more productive?  From my experience that is a big yes!

Google’s Project Aristotle found that psychological safety was the top factor in high performing teams.
A 2021 Catalyst study revealed that employees with empathetic leaders are 4x more engaged and 3x more innovative.

Again why is a simple ‘thank you, job well done’ not the norm, the studies prove it is well worth those few extra moments.

Don’t Just Hire for Empathy—Train It

Empathy reduces friction with things like miscommunication, quiet tension, and disengagement. But to make empathy operational, you need more than good intentions.

You need skills. Systems. Support.

At F.A.S.T. Training Australia, we offer short, nationally recognised courses and bespoke programs that give teams the tools to perform better, by focusing on the human side of the work.

Our programs cover:

• Mental health and wellbeing awareness to help staff recognise and respond to early signs of burnout or overwhelm

• Micro self-care strategies such as mindful resets and mental health check-ins that improve daily resilience

• Connected communication techniques that turn hard conversations into clear, respectful exchanges

• Conflict resolution training that prevents escalation and supports long-term team harmony

When people are equipped with these skills, they stop operating in survival mode and start performing with purpose.

Real Benefits for Real Business Outcomes

Lower Absenteeism
Teams trained in mental health awareness experience fewer stress related absences. One F.A.S.T. client reduced sick days by 18% after embedding wellbeing practices into their culture.

Faster Solutions
Psychologically safe teams don’t wait for permission they ask questions early, speak up sooner, and solve problems faster.

Stronger Recovery
When setbacks happen, resilient teams bounce back instead of burning out. Self-care tools and communication training help individuals recalibrate quickly.

Greater Loyalty 
Empathy builds trust and trust builds retention. Deloitte found that 77% of employees who feel cared for are less likely to leave. (is that not incentive enough to start shifting culture?!)

Small Shifts That Make a Big Impact on Empathy in the workplace

Building a culture of empathy doesn’t require an overhaul. Start with habits like:

1. Ask real questions
   Open meetings with prompts like:
   → “What’s been challenging this week?”
   → “Is there anything affecting your focus today?”→ “What are some wins we have had this week”? (we don’t always have to focus on the negative)

2. Listen with intention
   Don’t rush to respond. Let silence sit. Repeat back what you hear to show people they’ve truly been heard.

3. Acknowledge invisible workloads
   Recognise the emotional labour that keeps teams running, supporting others, managing conflict, or going the extra mile quietly.

4. Reward emotional intelligence
   Shine a spotlight on managers and peers who lead with empathy. What you celebrate becomes your culture.

Leaders Set the Emotional Tone and workplace culture

Empathy isn’t a weakness it’s a skill. The best leaders notice tension before it erupts. They lean in when something feels off. They model calm during chaos and openness during uncertainty. Building a culture of empathy takes times but it is doable.

Questions like:
→ “How can I make your week easier?”
→ “You seemed a little off, want to talk?”
…aren’t distractions. They’re trust accelerators.

Trust is what allows teams to move faster, without breaking under pressure.

One of my most trusted mentors says “what you run from you run in to”  a statement that hits home because I have tried the run from method and it doesn’t work!  Companies with their blinkers on and a ‘nothing to see here’ culture are going to ‘run in to’ there problem eventually and it will have significant if not catastrophic impact.

Empathy at Scale: From Individuals to Culture

Empathy doesn’t have to stay at the one on one level. With the right training, it becomes part of your whole system, reflected in your HR processes, leadership expectations, and team rhythms.

According to McKinsey, companies with high psychological safety outperform their peers by more than 20%. Why? Because people can speak up, take risks, and bring their full selves to work.  A staff member in their late 50s said to me “This is the first company I have worked for that has asked me to bring my personality to work”  At first I felt extremely proud of the culture I had built but then very quickly felt sad.  Late 50’s and only now feeling they can be themselves in their workplace.  To feel safe and supported in your workplace should not be a lot to ask.

The Shortcut to Sustainable Productivity

When tools, salaries, and systems are equal, it’s the emotional climate that makes the difference. A culture where people feel understood doesn’t just feel better it works better.

Empathy helps teams:

• Communicate with less tension

• Recover from stress faster

• Stay loyal longer

• Solve problems without drama

And that’s the kind of efficiency you can’t fake.  It might be part of your mission statement but unless you are ‘doing the do’ it just doesn’t count.

Ready to Build a Stronger, Safer, More Connected Team?

Explore our short courses in wellbeing, communication, and leadership at F.A.S.T. Training Australia.  We are more than happy to have a conversation with you and see where the gaps are and how we can tailor training specifically to suit you.
We’ll help you turn emotional intelligence into everyday action and create a workplace people want to be part of.

FAQs

1. How does mental health training improve productivity and build emotional intelligence?
It helps teams recognise stress early, manage pressure, and access support before burnout hits.

2. What are micro self-care strategies and why does that elevate workplace culture?
Small, actionable tools like deep breathing resets, 2-minute pauses, or physical grounding techniques that keep staff calm and focused.  Strategies that you can do on the fly.  If staff are able to regulate their nervous system and take better care of their own wellbeing stress levels reduce which means less conflict, less injuries and less downtime.

3. Can conflict resolution really be taught?
Absolutely. We teach step by step methods to deescalate, clarify, and resolve issues without emotional fallout.

4. How do I know if my team needs this?
Rising sick days, miscommunication, low morale, or high turnover are clear signals. Even high performing teams benefit from emotional skill building. Every business will benefit with more empathy in the workplace.

5. Is this training just for managers?
No everyone benefits. Empathy and communication skills are critical across all levels and roles.  If employees are able to communicate clearly there is less stress and less conflict which mean less time managers spend resolving spats.  Think about how much more productive your managers will be if they aren’t mediating basic communication. Empathy in the workplace assists with reducing conflict and boosting productivity.

Where to from here…..

Sit quietly with a cuppa and ask yourself some of the tough questions, take the blinkers off for a moment and evaluate your teams emotional intelligence and give us a call, we are here to help.

The post How Empathy in the Workplace Drives Performance appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

A humorous but honest dive into passive aggressive power plays and how to create a safer, healthier work culture.

When “Karen” Isn’t Just a Meme

We’ve all chuckled at the “Karen” memes, those exaggerated portrayals of entitled individuals demanding to “speak to the manager.” But when behavior like this shows up in the workplace whether it’s disguised with a smile or cloaked in sarcasm it becomes a serious problem. Workplace bullying is no joke. It can damage mental health, sabotage teamwork, and lead to long term consequences for individuals and businesses alike. If you’re wondering how to deal with workplace bullying, you’re not alone.

It’s time to unpack the real-life impact of bullying and how we can build safer, more respectful workplace cultures.

Not Every Eye Roll Is Bullying (But Some Definitely Are)

Workplace bullying involves repeated, unreasonable actions that create a risk to health and safety. These actions can range from subtle manipulation and passive aggressive remarks to outright aggression and abuse. It’s important to understand that bullying isn’t just about intent it’s about the impact it has on others, often creating environments where employees feel unsafe, unwelcome, or devalued.

That said, not every awkward email, offhand comment, or sigh at the printer qualifies as bullying. We all have bad days, and not every interpersonal hiccup is a red flag. The real issue begins when behaviour is persistent, targeted, and causes harm emotionally, mentally, or professionally. Knowing the difference helps teams avoid confusion, misuse of the term, and, most importantly, spot when someone really does need support.

Understanding how to deal with workplace bullying means learning to identify the patterns—not just the loud moments.

A 2021 survey conducted by the Australian Human Rights Commission revealed that nearly 1 in 3 Australian workers (30%) have experienced workplace bullying at some point in their careers. These figures remind us that bullying is not rare or isolated, it’s alarmingly common.

Common forms of workplace bullying include:

• Verbal abuse: Insults, sarcasm, or belittling comments.
• Social exclusion: Deliberately isolating someone from team activities or information.
• Undermining work: Sabotaging someone’s efforts or setting unrealistic deadlines.
• Misuse of power: Using authority to intimidate or control others.

The Impact on Businesses (Yep, It’s Costing You More Than Just Awkward Staff Meetings)

Workplace bullying doesn’t just bruise egos, it bruises the bottom line. Toxic behaviour spreads faster than office gossip, and the fallout isn’t pretty: think high turnover, low morale, endless sick days, and a team that would rather face a root canal than come to work on a Monday.

It also puts your business at risk of reputational damage and even legal drama. And let’s be honest recruiting new staff is expensive, especially when your best people are walking out the door because “Karen” won’t stop undermining them in meetings. Ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away; it just gives it a corner office. Learn how to deal with workplace bullying, because when you protect your people, your performance follows.

According to Safe Work Australia, bullying claims cost Australian businesses an estimated $36 billion annually, once productivity losses, absenteeism, compensation claims, and turnover are factored in. Additionally, bullied workers are 70% more likely to leave their jobs within 12 months, which places added pressure on recruitment and training budgets.

Beyond the financial consequences, failing to act can damage workplace trust and credibility. Employees who witness bullying whether targeted themselves or not are less likely to speak up, feel safe, or perform at their best.

Spotting the Subtle Signs – (When Nice isn’t Nice)

Workplace bullying isn’t always loud or obvious. In fact, the most damaging behaviors are often those that hide behind politeness, professionalism, or humour. That’s why passive aggressive bullying can be so difficult to identify and even harder to report.

Covert bullying often includes:

• Backhanded Compliments: “You actually did a decent job today, good for you!”
• Exclusion from Meetings or Emails: Consistently being left out of important updates or team decisions.
• Non-verbal Undermining: Eye rolling, smirking, or visible annoyance in meetings.
• Withholding Resources or Support: Making tasks harder by not sharing information or tools.

Research conducted by Beyond Blue shows that 43% of employees who had been bullied didn’t report the incident due to fear of retaliation or lack of confidence in the reporting process. This highlights how important it is to not only recognise bullying, but to build a culture where employees feel safe and supported in speaking up.

Creating a Healthier Work Culture – (Because ‘No Jerks Allowed’ Should Be More Than Just a Vibe)

Solving workplace bullying takes more than a passive aggressive email or a laminated poster in the break room. If you want real change, you need to equip your team with real skills. That means ditching awkward silence and arming staff and management with practical tools for clear, respectful, and confident communication.

Connected Communication and Conflict Resolution Training helps teams navigate tension, handle feedback like pros, and deal with conflict before it turns toxic. It’s about shifting from reaction to prevention, teaching people how to speak up, listen actively, and resolve issues without turning every disagreement into a passive aggressive drama.

When people know how to communicate clearly, they don’t need to shout or shut down.

• Less tension.
• More teamwork.
• Better culture.

Now’s the time to train up, speak out, and set the tone. Because ignoring bad behaviour doesn’t make it go away it just gives it more room to grow.

Here’s how to start:

1. Establish Clear Policies: These should define bullying, outline unacceptable behaviours, and detail reporting processes and consequences.
2. Encourage Open Communication: Create psychologically safe environments where people can speak up without fear.
3. Provide Regular Training: Equip teams and leaders with the tools to identify, manage, and prevent bullying behaviours.
4. Lead by Example: Culture comes from the top. Managers and leaders must model positive, respectful behaviour.
5. Regularly Review Practices: Conduct workplace surveys and reviews to keep your finger on the pulse of your team’s experiences.

The Australian Workplace Barometer report found that organisations with strong leadership and clear communication are 50% less likely to experience bullying behaviours. This makes a compelling case for proactive education and culture development, rather than reactive HR intervention.

How F.A.S.T. Training Australia Can Help

(Because ‘Staff Training’ Shouldn’t Trigger a Collective Eye Roll)

Let’s face it organising staff training can feel like herding caffeinated cats. But that’s where we come in, at F.A.S.T. Training Australia, we take the stress out of planning and deliver sessions that your team will actually want to attend.

Our Workplace Mental Health training is practical, engaging, and designed to stick. We’re not just ticking boxes we’re building real world skills to help teams recognise early signs of stress, deal with conflict like maturely and create workplaces where people feel safe and supported (and maybe even enjoy coming in on a Monday).

Whether you’re a small crew or a larger organisation, we tailor everything to suit your people, your needs, and your budget. Less yawning. More “a-ha!” moments. Real strategies your team can use the very next day.

Because changing culture starts with learning—and we make learning easy.

Here’s how we can help:

• Workplace Mental Health Courses: These practical, engaging courses are delivered by professionals who understand the realities of Australian workplaces.
• Onsite and Online Options: Flexibility for busy teams and varied schedules.
• Free Resources: Visit our Mental Health Resources Hub to download posters, tip sheets, and tools to support workplace wellbeing.

Explore the full list of available programs at F.A.S.T. Workplace Mental Health Courses

Moving Beyond the Meme

The “Karen” meme may make us laugh, but workplace bullying is no joke. It destroys confidence, drains productivity, and undermines the very culture businesses work so hard to build. Whether it’s a sarcastic remark that cuts a little too deep, or systemic exclusion that leaves employees feeling invisible, bullying overt or covert must be addressed head-on.

Fortunately, with awareness, education, and a commitment to healthy culture, it can be prevented. Businesses that invest in respectful workplace training, promote psychological safety, and lead with empathy will always have the upper hand, not just in staff satisfaction, but in performance and retention too.

Learning how to deal with workplace bullying—and taking it seriously—can transform not only your culture but your outcomes. Let’s move beyond memes and toward meaningful change.

Helpful Links:

• Explore Our Workplace Mental Health Courses
• Download Free Mental Health Resources
• SafeWork Australia Code of Practice 

Contact us for tailored onsite training packages about bullying prevention strategies for your team

The post Banter or Bullying? Know the Difference appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

As a mum and a Wellbeing Coach of 19 years, I’ve heard countless stories about mental health struggles, physical safety concerns, relationship challenges, and more. Some of these stories have truly broken my heart. Education, wellbeing, and connection are values I hold close, and if I could, I would shout from the rooftops about the urgent need to address the youth mental health crisis. We are missing pivotal pieces of the puzzle when it comes to helping young people develop emotional intelligence and resilience.

Understanding the Root Causes

The truth is, we can’t just manage symptoms—we need to uncover and address the root causes of mental health struggles. When we only treat the symptoms, the real issue remains unresolved. Consider this: Why is a young person experiencing behavioral problems? What’s driving their anxiety or depression? If we don’t get to the source, we’re just putting a band-aid on the issue.
For example, prescribing medication can help manage anxiety symptoms, but if the underlying causes—such as chronic stress, trauma, or unhealthy coping mechanisms—aren’t addressed through therapy or lifestyle changes, the anxiety may persist or return. Medication has its place, but it should be part of a holistic approach, not the sole solution.

The Mind-Body Connection: A Missing Piece in Mental Health Care

Through my studies to become a Trauma Healing Practitioner over the past two years, I’ve come to believe that somatic work—the connection between mind and body—is the missing piece in mental health care. We underestimate the power of the vagus nerve and the importance of vagal tone in regulating our nervous system.

Did you know that 80% of communication between the gut and brain flows from the gut to the brain, while only 20% moves the other way? If we improve our gut health and overall physical wellbeing, our mental health improves, too. When we stop viewing the mind and body as separate entities and instead treat the body as a whole, we unlock new levels of healing and self-awareness.

Our bodies are incredibly intelligent—they constantly communicate their needs. Unfortunately, we often ignore these warning signals. The longer we suppress them, the louder they become. A mild discomfort turns into chronic pain, which, if neglected, may lead to serious illness. Break down the word “disease”—it literally means “dis-ease,” a body that is not at ease.

Teaching Young People to Process Stress

One of the biggest things we’ve forgotten is how to move stress through our bodies instead of storing it. Try this: Stand up, shake out your arms and legs, take a deep breath, and exhale with a sigh. This simple act mimics how animals release stress in the wild and helps reset your nervous system. Encouraging young people to engage in movement—whether it’s dancing, stretching, or even jumping—can be a game-changer in processing and releasing tension. Have you ever watched an animal in the wild after it experiences stress? Once the danger passes, it will shake, bounce, or engage in some kind of physical movement to release the adrenaline and cortisol from its system. Humans, on the other hand, tend to bottle up stress rather than process and release it. This is where the problem begins.

In our deep, instinctive need to nurture and protect our children from pain, we have unknowingly taken away their ability to self-soothe and self-regulate. In our quick response to comfort them, they no longer develop the skills to do it for themselves. Instead of looking inward for regulation, they seek external sources of relief—often turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms that only perpetuate the problem.

We must return to simple yet effective practices that help release stored tension and regulate our nervous systems. Something as small as massaging the ears, applying pressure to key points, taking a deep sigh, or focusing on a nourishing breath are quick and accessible strategies we can use in the moment to support self-regulation.

I hesitate to use the word “empower”—but we must give power back to young people and adults alike. Learning how to assist our bodies in healing is a skill we should all cultivate. Building a toolkit of somatic practices and micro self-care strategies can help us self-regulate, manage stress, and ultimately, improve our mental health.

Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations

One of the most powerful things we can do is provide young people with safe spaces to talk about their struggles. In our training programs, we consistently hear young participants say they feel comfortable opening up about what’s really happening in their lives.
The pubescent years are a rollercoaster—emotionally, socially, and physically. With the fast-paced demands of modern life, young people can easily become overwhelmed. By creating an environment where they feel heard and supported, we give them the tools to manage their emotions, reduce stress, and build resilience.

The Power of Practical Training: Street Smart Safety & Wellbeing Classes

To bridge the gap between knowledge and action, we developed the Street Smart Safety & Wellbeing Classes and other mental health and communication programs tailored to young people.
Our goal? To make these skills real, relatable, and usable in everyday situations. We teach young people how to respond in first aid emergencies—without needing a first aid kit on hand.
– Life skills in First Aid Management, using everyday items such as a shirt or sock
– Learn how to identify, support and assist someone with Mental Health concerns.
– Learn how to manage their Mental Health
– Strategies to regulate their nervous system, reduce stress response and anxiety.
– Learn self soothing techniques to balance parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system
– Resilience Strategies
– Visualisation Techniques

This training isn’t about unrealistic textbook scenarios—it’s about what to do when things actually go wrong in real life.

What makes our Street Smart Safety and Wellbeing Program different?

– This program is not about what you ‘should’ or shouldn’t’ do, it teaches them skills and strategies to cope when things do go wrong.
– Small groups for maximum engagement
– Fun, engaging and hands on delivery, students will experience using different techniques.
– 50 – 90 minute program adapted to suit your class timetable
– Accredited and non accredited courses available.
– Program can be adapted to include topics that are specifically impacting your cohort.

The Growing Crisis in Youth Mental Health

Youth mental health has reached a critical point, today’s young people are facing an unprecedented set of challenges. The long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to the pressures of social media, climate anxiety, and the soaring cost of living. These struggles have deepened in recent years, making it harder for young people to find support when they need it most.

The statistics published by The Australian Psychology Society paints a concerning picture. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15-24, and nearly 40% of 16–24-year-olds experience a mental health disorder. The Australian Psychological Society (APS) has warned that we are in the middle of a youth mental health crisis, with a sharp rise in young people seeking psychological treatment.

Despite the increasing need for mental health support, many young Australians face financial barriers to accessing professional help. More than a quarter of Australians report that cost prevents them from seeing a psychologist. This lack of access can have devastating long-term effects, leading to more difficulties in adulthood and a loss of potential for young people to lead fulfilling, productive lives.

The Importance of Mental Health Education & Self-Care

Mental health awareness needs to start early. Young people should be equipped with tools to:
– Identify and manage their own mental health
– Recognize when a friend needs support
– Develop coping strategies for stress and anxiety
– Build emotional resilience
– Understand the importance of seeking professional help when needed

Through hands-on learning experiences, we help young people develop skills that will serve them well into adulthood. These lessons don’t just benefit them now they carry forward, shaping how they handle stress, relationships, and life’s challenges in the future.

Taking Action: How You Can Help

1. Get Informed – Educate yourself on the challenges young people are facing today.
2. Encourage Open Conversations – Make mental health discussions a normal part of life.
3. Support Programs That Make a Difference – Look for courses, workshops, and training that empower young people with practical skills.
4. Advocate for Better Access to Mental Health Services – Support initiatives that make psychological services more accessible and affordable.
5. Be an Ally – Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or mentor, show up and support young people in your life.

We’re Here to Help

We are so passionate about youth mental health that we’re offering our Youth Safety & Wellbeing Program for FREE.—We believe that every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and prepared for life’s challenges.

Let’s work together to empower the next generation with the knowledge, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive. Contact us today to find out how we can bring this training to your school, workplace, or community.

Relevant Articles:

Raising Resilient Youth

Youth Suicide – Let’s Talk Prevention

Free Resources:

Self Regulation Strategies for Children

53 Calming Activities for Children

The post Youth Mental Health Crisis: appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

As a mother of two young men, keeping an eye on their mental health is always at the forefront of my mind. Parenting is a delicate balancing act—setting boundaries, staying connected in the hope they’ll come to you for help, and offering guidance while allowing them room to make mistakes. As parents, our instinct is to protect them and remove their pain, but doing so robs them of crucial life lessons that build identity, drive, and contribute to raising resilient youth.

When my sister had her son, she asked me, “What’s the best advice you can give me?” I told her, “It never gets easier; each stage is different,” and I still stand by that. When our kids level up, we need to level up as parents, which isn’t easy! The bigger they get, the bigger the potential problems and risks—and there’s no handbook for any of this!

Life for today’s teens is worlds apart from how I grew up. Social media is a pressure cooker, academic stress is overwhelming, and the endless messages about who they should be and what they should look like are constant. Social comparison is immediate and relentless, and the suffocating feeling of not measuring up is all too real.

Having conversations with parents, teachers, and teens, I hear firsthand how the youth mental health crisis has moved beyond headlines and sound bites. Many parents are juggling teens, aging parents, and the chaos of daily life, while Teachers are overburdened with an exhausting curriculum and behaviour management challenges.

Where did it all go so wrong?

There needs to be a shift in multiple areas for us to see real change.

Parents are struggling under financial pressure, often requiring two incomes just to make ends meet. They come home after a long workday, shuttle kids between activities, manage homework, cook dinner, and collapse into bed, only to repeat the cycle the next day. With their energy drained, many turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol. As parents, we lead by example, and while “do as I say” falls on deaf ears, “do as I do” resonates deeply. We need to press pause and prioritise our mental health, self-care, and nervous system regulation. When we are regulated, we help co-regulate our children.

Educators face their own struggles. Recent news stories about violence against teachers in the classroom are deeply concerning. While past disciplinary methods weren’t perfect, violence against teachers was unheard of when I was in school. Today, escalating student behaviour, increasing administrative demands, and unreasonable expectations from parents are pushing teachers to their limits.

The numbers speak for themselves: last year, more than 76,000 Queensland students were suspended, and teachers are facing verbal abuse from parents on a regular basis. Workers’ compensation claims for psychological and physical injuries in schools have skyrocketed, reflecting the stress and pressure teachers face.

Our youth are also dealing with alarming rates of diagnosed medical conditions, and while accommodations are necessary, poor behaviour still needs to be addressed with boundaries and consequences. We’re also losing the art of real connection—everyone is glued to a screen, and family dinners seem to be reserved for special occasions. The village it once took to raise a child is no longer there, and social media, which promises connection, often leaves us feeling lonely.

When delivering our Youth Street Smart and Wellbeing Program I’ve found our teens are acutely aware of the signs of mental health struggles like anxiety and depression. Yet they often lack the skills to support a friend in need or manage their own mental health, which is why this program is so important. Teens, as well as their schools, appreciate the real impact these programs can have on their lives.

Mental health still carries a stigma, especially for boys, who are often told to “tough it out” or “be a big boy.” This mindset suppresses emotions and leads to low emotional intelligence, poor relationships, and increased anxiety and depression. Disturbingly, males are three times more likely to die by suicide than females.

Raising Resilient Youth: What can we do to turn things around?

1. Start Talking About Mental Health Early and Often

One of the most important things we can do is normalise conversations around mental health. When we talk about it openly, we send the message that it’s okay to seek help. Schools, families, and communities need to create spaces where young people feel safe to express what they’re going through without fear of judgment.

2. Equip Youth with Tools for Self-Care

We often forget that young people are still learning how to manage their emotions and mental well-being. Schools can play a huge role here, teaching students practical ways to take care of themselves. From breathing exercises to mindfulness techniques, there are simple yet effective tools that can help them navigate stress.

3. Encourage Connection, Not Comparison

Helping teens build real, meaningful connections is critical. Encouraging face-to-face interactions, teaching them how to support one another, and focusing on empathy over competition can make a huge difference. Peer support programs can be especially impactful, giving students the opportunity to help each other through tough times.

4. Recognize the Signs Early

Parents, teachers, and friends can all play a role in spotting the early signs of mental health struggles. Subtle changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal, mood swings, or a drop in academic performance, can be red flags. The sooner we acknowledge these signs, the sooner we can intervene and offer support.

5. It’s not about being perfect

It’s crucial for our youth to learn life lessons, as these experiences shape their ability to adapt, problem-solve, and build resilience. Challenges and setbacks teach valuable lessons about perseverance, responsibility, and self-reliance. Allowing them to face and overcome struggles (with you in the background as the quiet observer) helps build the resilience they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Have conversations with our youth about influences and tik tokers, more often than not these influences are uneducated in the field they are preaching, are giving harmful advice and have their own agenda.

6. Empowerment

Understanding their values is essential for our youth, as it gives them clarity and direction in life. It helps them make decisions, navigate peer pressure, and stay true to themselves. By knowing what they stand for, they gain confidence and develop a strong moral compass that guides them through challenges.

7. Parents pressing pause

Parents who prioritise their own mental health and self-care set a powerful example for their children, showing that it’s okay to take time for yourself and seek help when needed. By modelling healthy coping strategies and emotional resilience, you teach kids how to manage stress and handle challenges effectively.

8. Supporting our Educators

Parents and the community can support Teachers by having respectful communication and by reinforcing positive behaviour expectations at home. Volunteering time, whether in the classroom or at school events, can ease the pressure on Teachers. Respecting boundaries and advocating for a better work / life balance will help reduce Teacher stress and burnout.

9. Support a Balanced Lifestyle

For everyone! But for our youth by encourage a balance between academics, social life, and downtime helps prevent burnout and promotes mental well-being. Encourage physical activity has been shown to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase overall mental well-being.

10. Professional Help is Essential

Finally, there’s no replacement for professional help. Therapists, counsellors, and psychologists are trained to guide young people through their struggles in a way that friends and family might not be able to. Encouraging young people to reach out to a professional when they need it is one of the most powerful things we can do.

Our youth are our future, and their mental well-being is a priority we cannot ignore. While the current crisis is complex, the solutions don’t have to be. It starts with awareness, conversation, and care. We all need to take ownership and do our little bit to steer the direction of change for the better.

Let’s keep the conversation going, and let’s keep showing up for our young people. After all, they deserve nothing less.

Would like to more about our Youth Safety and Wellbeing Programs?

These programs are not about what you ‘should’ or shouldn’t’ do, we teach them skills and strategies to cope when things do go wrong.

60 – 90 minutes of fun, engaging, age-appropriate education. The class is experiential, students will experience different techniques and walk away with life skills and strategies.

Program benefits:

• Life skills in First Aid Management
• Learn how to identify, support and assist someone with Mental Health concerns.
• Learn how to manage their Mental Health
• Strategies to regulate their nervous system, reduce stress response and anxiety.
• Learn self soothing techniques to balance parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system
• Resilience Strategies
• Visualisation techniques

Junior Safety and Wellbeing – Kindy to year 6

An age appropriate introduction to the basics of CPR and First Aid. Creating awareness in managing ‘big emotions’ how to self soothe and regulate their own nervous system. We are never to young to learn, we are here to support you in raising resilient youth!

A great program! A perfect format to create awareness and introduce the children to first aid. The Trainer was fun and did a great job keeping the children on task and engaged. Highly recommend. Amberley District After School Care

Youth Street Smart Safety & Wellbeing – years 7 to 11

Teaching our youth to be resourceful in a first aid emergency. They will also learn to recognize mental health issues, support others, and strategies to build self-regulation and resilience.

24.5% of students said they were confident in safety and mental health awareness prior to our class

92% of students said they were confident in these areas after our class

“For the past 3 years and booked again for this year F.A.S.T. First Aid Training has presented the ‘Street Smart Safety and Well-being’ Program to our Year 10 cohort during our Be Confident week. Our students have found value in learning ‘real world’ strategies and how to be resourceful in the event of a first aid emergency. Equipping our students with the ability to offer aid to someone experiencing mental health concerns and enhance their own mental well-being is a priority to us. The program aligns with our school values, is age appropriate, engaging and the feedback is very positive from the students.”

Dr Leigh Hobart, Deputy Headmaster Academic Performance and Innovation P-12
Brisbane Boys College

Schoolies Safety and Wellbeing – year 12

The youth program is adapted to address the challenges our year 12’s may face as they test boundaries during Schoolies Week.

“Today was exceptional, the statistics are phenomenal”
S. Murphy – Deputy Principal

We need your support

If you are a parent or Teacher and would like your school to deliver our Youth Street Smart and Well-being Program please forward this link to your school. We would really appreciate your support, our goal is to support our parents, community and educators and help Raise Resilient Youth.

Connect with us

The post Raising Resilient Youth: We all have a part to play appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

It’s more than just an HR problem; workplace bullying is a critical issue that can significantly impact a company’s bottom line. This blog will explore the detrimental effects of workplace bullying on business performance and highlight the importance of addressing this issue head-on.

What does Workplace Bullying look like? (And what it’s not)

It may include (this is not exhaustive):

• intimidation, coercion, threats, humiliation, shouting, sarcasm, victimisation, terrorising, singling-out, malicious pranks, physical abuse, verbal abuse, emotional abuse, belittling, bad faith, harassment, conspiracy to harm, ganging-up, isolation, freezing-out, ostracism, innuendo, rumour-mongering, disrespect, mobbing, mocking, victim-blaming and discrimination.

That’s some list!

When is it not Workplace Bullying?

Not every situation will be related to Workplace Bullying. If reasonable management action is taken then it is not considered bullying. I emphasise the word ‘reasonable’ here. Some examples of reasonable management action includes: (again this is not exhaustive)

• Hosting performance management conversations. These should be respectful, supportive and constructive.
• Implementation of organisational changes or restructures (which may involve redundancy)
• Successful applicants are selected through a merit based recruitment process.
• Fair and reasonable allocation of working hours and rostering system.
• Work expectations meet the job description

For a more detailed description check out our blog – 8 Signs of a Healthy Workplace

Beyond Blue Workplace Bullying Statistics

The Cost of Ignoring Workplace Bullying

When businesses ignore the hidden costs of workplace bullying, the repercussions can be severe and multifaceted. Here are eight key reasons why managing workplace bullying is essential for the health and success of any organization:

1. Increased Employee Turnover: Bullied employees are more likely to leave their jobs, leading to higher turnover rates. Recruiting and training new employees is costly and time-consuming.
2. Reduced Productivity: Employees who experience or witness bullying are often less productive due to stress, anxiety, and distraction.
3. Higher Absenteeism: Bullying can lead to increased sick leave as employees attempt to avoid the hostile environment, further disrupting business operations.
4. Legal Costs: Companies may face lawsuits and legal fees associated with claims of workplace harassment or bullying.
5. Damage to Reputation: A company known for tolerating bullying can suffer significant damage to its brand and reputation, making it harder to attract top talent.
6. Lower Employee Morale: Bullying creates a toxic work environment, leading to decreased morale and engagement among employees.
7. Increased Health Care Costs: Stress-related illnesses from bullying can lead to higher health care costs for the company.
8. Loss of Innovation: A culture of fear and intimidation stifles creativity and innovation, crucial components for business growth and competitiveness.

The cost of workplace bullying

Characteristics of a Healthy Workplace Culture

Creating a healthy workplace culture is pivotal in preventing bullying and fostering a positive work environment. There are numerous benefits of prevention including the hidden costs of workplace bullying.

8 characteristics of a healthy workplace culture:

1. Open Communication: Encouraging open, honest dialogue between all levels of staff.
2. Mutual Respect: Promoting respect for all employees, regardless of their position.
3. Supportive Leadership: Leaders who provide support and mentorship.
4. Recognition and Reward: Regularly acknowledging and rewarding employee achievements.
5. Inclusive Environment: Celebrating diversity and fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
6. Clear Policies: Having clear, well-communicated policies on acceptable behaviour.
7. Conflict Resolution: Effective systems for resolving conflicts quickly and fairly.
8. Work-Life Balance: Supporting a healthy balance between work and personal life.

A happy workplace is a productive workplace

Benefits of Mental Health Awareness and Communication Training

Investing in mental health awareness and communication training can bring numerous benefits to both the business and its culture. Here are eight key advantages:

1. Improved Employee Well-being: Better mental health leads to happier, healthier employees.
2. Enhanced Productivity: Employees with good mental health are more productive and efficient.
3. Reduced Absenteeism: Awareness and support for mental health can reduce absenteeism.
4. Lower Turnover: Employees are more likely to stay with a company that values their mental health.
5. Better Team Collaboration: Effective communication training enhances team collaboration and cohesion.
6. Stronger Employee Engagement: Employees who feel supported are more engaged and committed to their work.
7. Positive Work Environment: A focus on mental health fosters a positive, supportive work environment.
8. Enhanced Company Reputation: Companies that prioritize mental health and communication are seen as desirable places to work.

Conclusion

Addressing workplace bullying is not just a moral imperative but a strategic business decision. By fostering a healthy workplace culture and investing in mental health awareness and communication training, businesses can protect their bottom line while creating a thriving, positive work environment. Don’t let workplace bullying go unchecked—take action now to safeguard your employees and your business and avoid getting caught out by the hidden costs of workplace bullying.

Safe Work Act – Guide for preventing Bullying

The delivery of the content was relaxed and very relevant to our workplace. I found value in the 4 step communication, this is something that will help me not only at work but at home.
The conflict resolution strategies were very helpful as this is something as a teacher we need to manage every day.
Nicole – St Edmunds College

Relevant Blogs:

Burnout – Why it is on the rise

How Mentally Healthy is your Workplace?

Workplace Bullying – 8 Signs of a Healthy Workplace

Contact us about Workplace Training Solutions:

Email: info@fasttrainingaustralia.com.au

Phmailto:info@fasttrainingaustralia.com.auone: 07 3067 9070

The post Workplace Bullying – The Hidden Costs appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

We tend to think of our Aussie men as being invincible, tough, a bit of a larrikin at times, fun-loving and super-chilled!

Let’s have a heart to heart then about the wonderful men and boys in our life!

Our fun-loving, carefree Aussie men – we often think of them as being invincible!

What we know, is that they enjoy better health and have a longer life expectancy than their counterparts in most other countries in the world.

That’s great news – RIGHT?

Whilst this is encouraging for our Aussie males, they still have a shorter life expectancy than women in Australia and sadly we are still seeing men pass away from preventable causes.

Let’s repeat that – preventable causes! Clearly, something is amiss.

Why is that? How can we all help to change this?

It can be contributed to a number of factors and we are going to explore this a bit more. Lifestyle does influence and have impact to overall health.

Think about the men in your life, Do they:

• Have an active lifestyle? What does their physical activity look like?
• Have a healthy work life balance?
• Follow a well-balanced diet?
• Maintain a healthy weight?
• Take recreational drugs/illicit substances?
• Smoke tobacco/use vapes? What age are young boys starting to vape?
• Consume alcohol on a regular basis/consume excessive alcohol?

Are the men in your life following a healthy eating regime? Do they maintain a healthy weight range?

One that is often not factored:

• What is their occupation? A high stress environment? Exposed to violence?

Some males are simply more disadvantaged than others and places them at greater risk for poorer health outcomes – perhaps homeless or without a job.

Disadvantaged men are experiencing poorer health outcomes. We are seeing a significant rise in homelessness across Australia

All these factors will play a role in the overall health and well-being of our men and boys.

Australian Health has introduced a National Men’s Health Strategy (2020 – 2030) to focus on identifying men’s health problems with one of the objectives being to educating and improving men’s health and well-being.

The five priority issues identified are:

• Mental health;
• Chronic conditions;
• Sexual and reproductive health and conditions where men are over-represented
• Injuries and risk taking; and
• Healthy ageing.

(Source: National Men’s Health Strategy 2020-2030)

The Men’s Health Strategy advocates for a life-course approach in tailoring interventions to engage and support Australia’s diverse men and boys across all stages of their lives.

Did you know?

“Males die from coronary heart disease and lung cancer at twice the rate of females”

“Males are more likely to be diagnosed with bowel cancer, but less likely to participate in bowel cancer screening than females’

(Source: National Men’s Health Strategy 2020-2030)

The average Australian is living longer; however, it does not necessarily mean that this equates to leading a ‘quality life’.

Whilst men are living longer, this does necessarily equate to leading a quality life.

As an ageing nation, the focus is turning to:

• healthy ageing,
• encompassing physical activity,
• healthy lifestyle, work life balance and
• social engagements

Each one of these bringing different benefits to the health and wellbeing of our men. This focus may influence health and wellbeing in the latter years to reduce the risks.

Are our men heading off to the doctor when needed?

Did you know that ‘disturbingly 72% of males don’t seek help for mental-ill health’. We need to help guide a change to this pattern.

Visits to the GP has improved over time, however:

There is a prevailing concern, about the content and context of men’s interactions with the health system. When men access a health professional it is often for shorter consultations, and typically when a condition or illness is advanced.

Any delay in help-seeking, reduces the opportunity for early diagnosis and intervention, which can dramatically affect long-term outcomes for diseases such as cancer, chronic conditions, and for mental health conditions.

Disturbingly, 72% of males don’t seek help for mental ill-health.

Did you know?

“Almost 1 in 4 males aged 16 -24 years have experienced symptoms of a mental disorder”

As a community or family member we can help to guide, ‘to empower and support men and boys to optimise their own and each other’s health and wellbeing‘.

Here are 4 practical tips to put the spotlight on the health of our men and boys :

Encourage men/boys to practice self care.

This may not be a concept or thought that comes to mind for men or boys as often there is the stereotype to be brave, to be the hero and show no signs of weakness or vulnerability. This leaves little room to be taking care of oneself, however their health and well-being needs to be a priority. A mind shift to a newer concept to practice self-care.

Self-care is not selfish.

Be on the lookout for the early signs

In every way, check the signs:

• Physical signs might be evident – gaining weight, breathlessness, lethargy, fatigue, insomnia.
• Look beyond the physical, look to emotional health for clues : social isolation, substance abuse, mood swings, taking days off work, to name a few.

Look for the tell-tale early warning signs. Burnout is a sign of stress. Prolonged stress can lead to both poor physical and mental health outcomes.

Encourage conversation:

Sounds simple, however may be harder for men to open up, to show vulnerability. They need to feel safe to be heard. Encourage open dialogue and clear, connected communication. We are looking for engaging, meaningful conversation. It could be as simple as getting started with – ‘Are you okay? and put the listening ears on to really ‘hear’.

Learn First Aid:

First Aid is about saving lives. If you haven’t learned First Aid or brushed up on your life-saving skills, time to book yourself into a course! Whilst responding to an emergency or first aid incident isn’t in the preventative space, it is certainly about saving lives. Would you be surprised to know that 95% of the time you are required to perform CPR, it will be on someone you know or someone you love!

The top 10 causes of death in males are: coronary heart disease, lung cancer, cerebrovascular disease, COPD, prostate cancer, bowel cancer, diabetes, lymph/blood cancer and suicide”

How are you going to help make a difference?

It’s time to put the spotlight on Men’s Health! Together we can make a change for the betterment of the health of our Aussie men and boys.

Reach out if you would like F.A.S.T. First Aid Training to help with facilitating men’s/boys communication and well-being programs. We are here to help.

Reference has been made to the Australian Health Men’s Health Strategy and permission to use the material has been sought under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0

International Public License; Based on Commonwealth of Australia (Department of Health) material from the National Australian Men’s Health Strategy 2020 – 2030.

Resources that may interest you:

The Hidden Cost of Workplace Bullying

6 Tips – Men’s Mental Health

Courses that may interest you:

Mental Health and Wellbeing Courses and Programs

The post Men’s Health under the spotlight appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

Do you feel in this fast-paced world we live in; stress has become an unwelcome companion? It seems to come from every angle, whether it is from deadlines at work to personal responsibilities, your nervous system often bears the brunt of your hectic lifestyle. Managing workplace stress is no longer a buzz word. Understanding how stress affects your nervous system and subsequently impacts your mental wellbeing is crucial for fostering a healthier, more balanced life.

Life appears to becoming busier and busier

Your nervous system is a complex network that regulates various bodily functions and responses. It consists of two main components: the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which connects the CNS to the rest of the body. Together, they coordinate your thoughts, actions, and responses to the environment.

When you encounter stress, whether it’s physical, emotional, or psychological, your body’s natural response is to trigger the “fight or flight” mechanism. This response is essential for survival in threatening situations, as it prepares you to either confront the danger or flee from it. Have you noticed a change? In today’s world, where many stressors are chronic and ongoing, this response can become maladaptive, leading to a state of chronic stress.

Chronic stress wreaks havoc on your nervous system in several ways. One of the primary culprits is the over-activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), which is responsible for the “fight or flight” response. When stress persists over extended periods, the SNS remains in a constant state of arousal, flooding the body with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

This continuous activation can lead to a phenomenon often referred to as “nervous system burnout” or “fried nervous system”.

The consequences of a fried nervous system extend beyond mere physiological discomfort. It can significantly impact your mental wellbeing.

Here’s how:

1. Anxiety and Depression

Prolonged stress alters the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine, which are closely associated with mood regulation. As a result, individuals may experience symptoms of anxiety and depression, ranging from persistent worry and irritability to feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

Have there been changes to your mood and behaviour?

2. Impaired Cognitive Function

Chronic stress impairs cognitive function, making it difficult to concentrate, remember information, and make decisions. This cognitive fog can further exacerbate feelings of frustration and overwhelm, perpetuating a cycle of stress and mental fatigue.

3. Sleep Disturbances

The overactivation of the SNS disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it challenging to fall asleep and stay asleep. Poor sleep quality not only exacerbates feelings of fatigue and exhaustion, but also undermines the body’s ability to recover and regenerate, further exacerbating stress and mental health issues.

Are you getting enough sleep? Are you getting good sleep?

4. Physical Symptoms

Chronic stress can manifest in a variety of physical symptoms, including headaches, muscle tension, digestive problems, and cardiovascular issues. These physical manifestations not only contribute to discomfort and distress but also serve as constant reminders of the toll that stress is taking on the body and mind.

It’s not just the mental health signs, physical signs will begin to appear as well

5. Social Withdrawal and Isolation

Coping with chronic stress can be isolating, as individuals may withdraw from social interactions and activities they once enjoyed. This withdrawal can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness, alienation, and disconnection, amplifying the negative impact on mental wellbeing.

Look for signs – are you withdrawing from others?

Addressing stress-induced nervous system dysfunction and promoting mental wellbeing requires a holistic approach that encompasses various strategies and interventions.

Here are some effective strategies to consider managing chronic stress:

1. Stress Management Techniques

Learning and practicing stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, mindfulness, and progressive muscle relaxation can help regulate the body’s stress response and promote relaxation and resilience.

2. Physical Activity

Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, yoga, or tai chi, not only promotes physical health but also helps alleviate stress, improve mood, and boost overall wellbeing. It can be any physical activity. Think about what you love, maybe it’s dancing, swimming or bike riding?

Choose your activity – Do something you love

3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Prioritising healthy lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet, adequate sleep, hydration, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, can support optimal nervous system function and enhance resilience to stress. Even the smallest of changes, can work towards making a difference.

Take a good look at what foods you are eating

4. Social Support Networks

Cultivating strong social support networks through meaningful relationships, friendships, and community involvement can provide emotional validation, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, buffering against the negative effects of stress. We all need to feel connected. Maintaining human connection is very important for your wellbeing.

Staying connected is incredibly important for your well-being

5. Seeking Professional Help for workplace stress

Recognising when stress becomes overwhelming and seeking support from mental health professionals can provide valuable tools, insights, and coping strategies for navigating challenging circumstances and promoting mental wellbeing. Our tip? – Seek help early.

At F.A.S.T., we understand how chronic stress fries the nervous system and impacts mental wellbeing. We understand how important it is to maintain your wellbeing to foster a healthier, more balanced life.

Prioritising your mental wellbeing is not a luxury, but a necessity in today’s world. We encourage you to take steps to nurture and protect your nervous system to bring greater resilience, vitality, and joy into your life.

Self-care is not selfish.

SOS Self Care Strategy book

Take steps to look after YOU!

Chronic stress is not a badge of honour, it will rob you of your wellbeing.
Isn’t it time you took the steps to manage stress, promote resilience and prioritised your self-care so you can achieve a greater sense of calm and clarity?

It’s time to enhance your overall quality of life and wellbeing by reducing chronic stress, Let us help you get there.

Our range of Workplace Training including face to face and online courses can assist in reducing workplace stress and avoiding burnout.

The post Chronic Workplace Stress – How fried is YOUR Nervous System?! appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

We are living in a fast-paced modern world. Since the pandemic, flexible working, remote work and work from home options have opened up a lot more opportunity, however, may also see a ‘blur’ of the lines between work and personal life. Wellbeing programs are implemented in many workplaces, yet we are still seeing an alarming rise in employee Burnout!

Why is that?

We saw during the pandemic, people bouncing babies on the knees, whilst at the same time, furiously tapping away on their keyboards and then working into the night after the kids fell asleep to keep the hours up. For some, it has now become the ‘norm’.

The other day, I read a post on Linked In, about a lady praising her workplace for allowing her to work (from home) whilst she was quite sick, and her children were sick, on and off for several months. She cited how wonderful her company was to allow her to continue to work whilst so sick. Parenting and working – It’s such a tough balancing act!

More than ever, people are trying to keep up with change and the cost of living pressures too. Families have a tough balancing act with caring for kids and working.

Is it ideal to not have adequate rest whilst sick? Particularly as a parent or carer?

I wouldn’t have thought so, however the public commentary on the post supported this apparent sacrifice of self-care. These are just some examples of the changes we’ve seen emerge in the last few years.

The way in which we work and live is being redefined. We are amid the Fourth Industrial revolution, and you shall see the introduction of exponential technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics, blockchain, the Internet of Things (smart devices) and virtual/augmented reality.

We are in the middle of a technological revolution – the pace of change is increasing

All of these things have influence on the way in which we live and is rapidly and radically changing the way in which we work.

You may also be hearing a lot of discussion about well-being and workplaces implementing well-being programs in attempt to create psychologically safe environments.

You may have also heard people talking more about stress and the rise of ‘burnout’. It is important to remember that certain levels of stress may be beneficial and act as a motivator, so we need to understand this more.

So firstly – what is Burnout?

“Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.

It is characterized by three dimensions:-

– feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion;

– increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job; and

-reduced professional efficacy.

Burn-out is included in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as an occupational phenomenon. It is not classified as a medical condition”. ~World Health Organisation

Burnout is a state of complete mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion. To experience burnout, it must affect every one of those 3 states. Note though we are talking about the relationship here to occupation.

Does it have impact on your personal life? – Absolutely!

You often see the effects of burnout spill over into personal lives, affecting relationships, physical and mental wellbeing. Often the person doesn’t recover during the normal break periods such as weekends or days off. Have you ever seen a friend or family member fall very unwell the moment they take a much-awaited holiday break?

Burnout has 3 dimensions affecting you physically, emotionally and mentally, to the point of exhaustion

What is NOT Burnout ?

It is NOT a mental health disorder, it is a result of chronic, long-term stress – noting that this unmanaged stress can lead to a mental health disorder, affect your physical health and behaviour. A range of symptoms will begin to develop.

It is important to recognise the signs! (And recognise them early so you can act). It is also important that all businesses are aware of the psychosocial hazards that presents risk to their employees. I liken it to redlining the engine in your car. It is simply not possible to redline your car’s engine with expectation that it wouldn’t break or be damaged.

Burnout is like redlining an engine! It would be reasonable to think that unmanaged stress would lead to damage of the mind and body. Often people associate burnout as some kind of personal failing on their part, however this is simply inaccurate.

It is incredibly important that both leaders and employees take steps to fostering a culture of well-being. I would not be able to tell you definitively what every business needs, as I am not working in your business, however all can take the same approach.  Investing in Workplace Training is a saving in the long run.  How?  You will save money with compensation claims, reduce sick days and the key to business success is boosting productivity and workplace morale.

• Listen to your workers – really listen. Try to understand the issues from their perspective. Utilise a variety of forums to discover the real truths. Provide a safe space for honest feedback.

Listen to your team – create an environment (through lots of forums) for them to feel safe to share

• Conduct a Risk Assessment with your workers to establish what psychosocial hazards are in the workplace and work as a team about how to eliminate or minimise the associated risks.
• Remember it starts at the very top – Leaders are the role models. Team members will be guided by your lead. Put your best foot forward.
• Raise awareness and educate, educate, educate! (Include Leaders in the education piece. They need support too)
• Regularly check in – Is it working? What needs to improve? What needs to be sustained? Are new risks being identified? Is the work landscape changing?

We have seen so much change over the last few years and the work landscape keeps changing – remember to constantly review, What works? What doesn’t?

Fostering a Culture of well-being – How would this look in practice?

Again, you really need to know the results of your Risk Assessment and be very transparent. This will look different workplace to workplace.

In the example I gave above, leaders were aware of the mum who was sick for many months, however appeared to actively encourage her to soldier on at the expense of her physical health.

Evaluate the culture being created – is it continue to work at ALL costs? How is that helping workers? How can that help business in the long run?

Nine out of ten organisations now have some aspects of a wellbeing program in place. You may see well intended approaches, such as access to employee assistance programs (EAP), daily fruit offerings, access to meditation apps or discounted gym access etc. All excellent initiatives and these should continue, however we are talking about a culture of change here.

We want to hear from our workers and delve much deeper!

Keep the current well-being measures in place – however take a much deeper dive to understand what will support your workers

The following are just some tips and ideas for you to reduce employee burnout. If your organisation hasn’t adopted this culture of well-being, then work as a team. Sit down and chat about what works, what doesn’t, and the ways in which you can support each other.

Here’s some ideas/tips to get you thinking: –

• A dedicated afternoon that is free of ANY meetings. Planning a moment in the calendar that frees the team up to get work done.
• An email free day (I worked for a company where the CEO determined Wednesdays were email free days to enable the business to focus on core business without distraction). The Sales team loved this initiative and allowed Corporate a little more dedicated time for admin tasks.
• Walking meetings – take it outside and squeeze in some exercise too. Boost that Serotonin.

One of my favourite ways to take on a meeting is to don on your joggers and head out into the fresh air. Think outside the box.

• Ditch the lunch and learns – let workers have their recharge time.
• Revisit commitments to meetings. Do you really need to attend every meeting?
• Revisit the length of meetings. Does it really need to be an hour? Can it be reduced to just 15 or 30 minutes with some more prep time?

Since the pandemic, there has been a surge of online meetings, as far more opportunity for collaboration. Take a good look into your calendar – are all meetings necessary? Can you reduce meeting lengths?

• The availability of mental health days when needed.
• Avoid sending emails over the weekend or late at night. (Schedule through Outlook to send during standard office hours). If you work flexibly, perhaps seek guidance from People and Culture (HR) about some appropriate wording for your email signature block to indicate your flexible hours and no need for others in the business to respond out of hours to your emails.
• Lead by example – if you are a leader, are you eating lunch at your desk? What message does this send to your team members? As a leader are you constantly working into the night? never take a holiday? – your team will watch you closely for behaviours. Will they feel the weight of the choices you make, thinking they need to also role model your behaviours?

If you are a leader, take care of the subliminal messages you send to your team. Also reach out for support for yourself. It is a tough gig being in a leadership role

• Block out regular time into your calendar for a lunch break.
• Time out – feeling free to take some time out and take the dog for a walk, hit the gym, do some laps at the local pool or a walk on the beach (if you are lucky enough!) – anything to break up the day and allow you to recharge. We all know the benefits of time in nature and some Vitamin D, so why not seize this through our working day? Productivity shall soar! I have a son who has learning challenges. His school provides him with a time out card to allow him to leave the classroom for 5 or 10 minutes as needed, to give him time to get his head back ‘into the game’.

Look for ways to reinvigorate.

• Take breaks – often when working from home in particular, workers simply don’t take sufficient breaks. We know this due to the rise in musculoskeletal disorders being reported. Use a break taker app, a reminder to get up and move, stretch, and adjust the eyes away from the screen.
• If you are a leader, do check in on your remote workers. They will have a stronger need to feel ‘connected’.
• For some businesses, decision has already been made to reduce the 5-day working week to a 4-day working week with the same rate of pay. This allows more ‘life’ balance into the picture. Something that strongly resonates with workers in terms of life values post pandemic.
• Evaluate the resources required for the tasks. Easier said than done, however need to be realistic about what can be achieved, especially if decisions being made to reduce resources in any way.

This is not rocket science, simply ideas that have come from workers themselves about how they perceive their well-being needs may be met.

Stressors originating out of the workplace need to be well managed to avoid burnout. There are some bigger challenges that may relate to workplaces, and these shall need to be well considered and supported:

• Some sectors may be exposed to violent environments or vicarious trauma though the work they undertake. (e.g. Social Workers, Health Care, Emergency Service workers etc). Risks need to be well-managed, and the controls well thought out. I would need to prepare a whole other blog on this subject alone, as a good understanding is needed in terms of exposure and risk to determine the related controls such as debriefing, access to support, rotation of roles, rotation of task, limit of exposure, well-being checks etc. etc.

The key is transparency, understanding the hazards and the assessment of risk. There should be mechanisms in place to ensure the early signs are recognised and supported with appropriate interventions.

Leaders, ask your teams what they think. Create a safe environment to encourage conversation about necessary changes for a sustainable Culture of Well-being.

The result? – A healthier future for all of us.

Want to know more? What the root causes really are? What does it look like at your workplace and how are you going to be a part of this change?

Infinite Potential have conducted a study of the “State of Burnout 2023” and the report is available for download (free) – here.

Peek into the report, see how it relates to your workplace. Discover how you can make changes for your team, for your department, for your business and reduce stress and avoid employee burnout.

Need some help to get started? We are here for you and have a range of Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Awareness Training Programs to support your staff and their workplace.  Onsite Workplace Training available as well as online courses.

Links that may interest you:

Workplace Training Programs

Connect with us

The post Employee Burnout – Why is it on the rise? appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

How are you feeling of late?

Do you recognise any signs that things are off kilter?

How much noise is going on in your head?

How are things at work? At home?

How connected are you feeling to others?

Are you feeling that you are telling people you are fine, however the reality is maybe you’re not!

Taking care of your Mental Health. Has there been some subtle signs that your greatest asset is being affected?

Perhaps this blog is a reminder to take check and take the time to get things back on track. Remember – Self-care is not selfish!

SOS self-care strategies

It is well-known that when your mental health suffers, it also has impact to your physical health. Recognising the signs early and taking steps to make change, even simple change can make an enormous difference.

Let’s talk about things that impact and what changes you can make to improve employee mental health:

Connection with others

When you begin to feel low, one of the first things to be affected is your social connections. You may find that it becomes an increasing effort to see or connect with friends, that you find yourself cancelling outings last minute and start to avoid contact with others. It is important to recognise this sign.

Look for the early signs – withdrawing or disconnecting

We are social beings, and it provides us with a sense of purpose, security and builds happiness. It makes sense if the connection to others begins to dissolve, then essentially so does your happiness.

Couch lounging

We’ve all been here haven’t we? Spending time binge watching Netflix until the wee hours. That might be fine for a short period of time (or maybe not!), however if this is your daily routine, it’s time to get up and get moving.

We all love to lounge right? However, making it the everyday is not doing our mental health a favour!

Physical activity boosts your feel-good neurotransmitters – known as endorphins. Exercise also increases oxygen supply to your brain. So take a walk! A walk in nature, walk the dog, walk to the shops or park further from work and walk to work. Any kind of walk! Maybe take it one step further and join the gym, pilates or a local sporting club. This will give even more opportunity for social connection too.

Dance like nobody is watching

Isn’t that how the saying goes? Okay so maybe you aren’t going to dance like nobody is watching, however music lifts the soul. Put on your favourite track, sing loudly, and get lost in the music. If you feel like busting out a boogie – then go ahead, do it!

Music is known to change your mood – get jiggy with it!

Find a furry friend

As a dog owner, I know first-hand the benefits of having a furry friend. They bestow unconditional love, lower your stress levels, and have the uncanny ability to change your mood (no matter how crappy your day was). Having a pet helps you both emotionally and physically.

There is some science behind the very real health benefits reducing blood pressure and lowered risk of heart disease! (Source: Harvard Health) Of course, it is not limited to just dogs. You may want a cat, a guinea pig, bird or rabbit. Having a pet helps to change your mood, so this is a boost for your mental health. Watch how your mood changes when your pet greets you at the end of the day. If you have a dog, then it may be just the excuse to get you out walking too!

Catch some rays

If you have ever lived in the UK, you may have heard of S.A.D. – Seasonal Affective Disorder. Largely it is brought on from a lack of sunlight. Yes, really! Essentially the person does not get enough sun exposure – not enough Vitamin D. It usually occurs in response to climate changes and seasonal weather changes. You may hear that doctors often prescribe a sunny holiday to Spain or Ibiza! That’s a prescription we all need – sign me up!

Remember to get out in nature – catch some rays

The point here is, don’t underestimate the time you do need to spend outdoors, at the beach, camping and in nature. We all need some exposure to the sun for health, both for mental and physical health.

Globally we are spending way too much time indoors, largely due to the luxury items within our homes. This is having an impact to our physical and mental health. I know what you are thinking, we live in Australia! – however just be sensible about it – catch some rays

Earthing

Have you heard of this before? It is otherwise known as ‘grounding’. Go barefoot, feel the grass, the sand, the water, the pebbles beneath your feet. It is known to influence your well-being, reducing inflammation, pain, stress and has a knock-on effect to improve both sleep and blood flow. Kick off your shoes and connect with Mother Earth.

Feel the earth under your feet

Go Green

Go green in every way, more plants, more greenery in and around your home. Tending garden can be very therapeutic and has the added benefit of oxygenating your space. Good for the planet, good for you.

Gardening can be very therapeutic and is also good for you!

Take a digital detox

Am I serious? Yes! Attention spans are becoming less and less. Technology is moving at a crazy fast pace. Devices can be addictive. Research is emerging about the impact that it is having on our youth’s mental health.

Social Media algorithms are set to reel you in, to keep you coming back, some even designed to play on your vulnerabilities. Take a day off, take longer even. Connect instead in person with someone. Head out to lunch, meet up with a friend or family member. Watch the hours slip by, when you engage in meaningful conversation and take note of how good it makes you feel afterwards.

Ditch the phone – you can do it!

Call someone

How easy is it to text! How long has it been since you’ve picked up the phone and had a long chat? Go old school and reach out to connect.

Reach out and really connect – converse! That’s old school!

Take a good look at your Workplace – how mentally healthy is it?

Do you think your workplace is a mentally healthy one? How do you rate your employee mental health? What is the culture like within? What is the communication like between leaders and workers?

Reports are consistently emerging about unhealthy cultures that exist within some Australian businesses. In these businesses, some common themes occurring – bullying, harassment, discrimination, racism and a culture of working harder, longer and faster.

How Mentally Healthy is your workplace?

The result?

Physical and emotional health impact.

Where do you fit in here?:

• are you a worker?
• are you a leader?

Everyone needs to be striving for a mentally healthy workplace – it is not the sole responsibility of one. Being aware of the culture within, is the first step to working towards solutions to change it. Boosting employee mental health is a huge benefit for the employee and the business.

These are just some ideas, some simple things you can do to improve your mental health. Remember, it is your greatest asset and needs to be looked after.

Do you think you may need some extra help?

F.A.S.T. offer a wide range of mental health and well-being courses so you can learn easy strategies to improve your mental health.

Reach out to us today! We are here to help you

Looking for more ideas on activities for you?– check out the huge range of activities on the Queensland Gov. website.

#selfcare #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness

The post Employee Mental Health – Taking care of your greatest asset! appeared first on FAST Training Australia.